Media blackout now in Fiji ahead of poll

NUKU’ALOFA – November 12, 2018: 12.30pm (Nuku’alofa Times): Fiji is now under a media blackout for 48 hours until Wednesday.

This came into effect on Sunday midnight.

No stories, comments, social media posts or tweets on the election in Fiji will be tolerated under the Fiji Elections laws for the time being.

SODELPA leader Sitiveni Rabuka

Heavy fines and jail terms are possible for those who break the law.

Fiji goes to the poll on Wednesday, with the ruling Fiji First Party, led by Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama being challenged by other political parties like SODELPA, Fiji Labour Party, Unity Fiji Party and the National Federation Party.

Campaigning ended on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Fiji’s Chief Justice Anthony Gates will and down his ruling at 3pm today on the case brought against SODELPA party leader Sitiveni Rabuka.

Fiji’s anti corruption organisation FICAC has appealed a Magistrate Court ruling in favour of Mr Rabuka and had gone on appeal before CJ Gates.

If found guilty Mr Rabuka will not be able to continue as a candidate in the election.